GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 agonists are medications that help manage your blood sugar levels and promote weight loss. Our providers can help guide you through options that are right for your goals and lifestyle.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications, or GLP-1 agonists, are a class of drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. They are often injectable medications that are combined with other treatments—such as diet, exercise, medication, or bariatric surgery—to promote weight loss and manage blood sugar levels.

These medications may also help lower blood pressure, improve lipid disorders and fatty liver disease, slow diabetes-related neuropathy, and reduce the risk of heart and kidney disease. At Inspira, we work closely with pharmaceutical reps to get the latest indications for these medications. When medically appropriate, we prescribe GLP-1s for conditions like cardiac and vascular disease, sleep apnea, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke risk.

If you’re not a candidate for GLP-1 therapy, we’ll address your weight-loss challenges and create a personalized plan using oral medications and lifestyle changes. During follow-up visits, we evaluate your response to ensure safe, effective progress.

How Do GLP-1 Medications Work?

GLP-1 is a hormone in your small intestine with several important functions. It triggers the release of insulin, which helps your body use food for energy and lowers blood sugar levels. It also blocks glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar, slows digestion to reduce sugar release into the bloodstream, and increases feelings of fullness after eating.

GLP-1 agonist medications mimic this hormone’s effects to help your body produce more insulin, slow digestion, and promote satiety. These combined actions support weight loss and more stable blood sugar levels.

Types of GLP-1 Medications

Depending on your condition, lifestyle goals and insurance coverage, our providers can prescribe:

• Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
• Exenatide (Bydureon)
• Liraglutide (Victoza or Saxenda)
• Semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy)
• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro or Zepbound)

What to Expect When You Take GLP-1 Medication

After an initial visit with a medical weight management specialist, they will determine if GLP-1 treatment is right for you. The Inspira team is experienced in working with insurance companies to obtain appropriate coverage and help decrease cost when applicable. We also work closely with Inspira Health Pharmacy locations to ensure timely refills. Our pharmacy department provides compassionate and friendly care to our patients struggling with obesity in a non-judgmental way.

Most GLP-1 medications are taken via injection daily or weekly. The most common side effects of GLP-1 medications include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Some people also experience dizziness, increased heart rate, infections, headaches, upset stomach or redness or itchiness at the injection site. These medications aren’t safe to take during pregnancy, and you should use reliable birth control while taking them.